Brassidium Gilded Urchin 'Halo'

[panam]

Wow, Ali, a new spike and new growth - looks like good things in store with this little guy! Congratulations on the wonderful orchid!

[Brutal_Dreamer]

Beautiful and healthy orchid, Ali. Congratulations!

Cheers,
BD

[TwoStems]

Thanks for the kind words all

[EMos]

Really beautiful healthy blooming Bassidium. Congratulations!

[TwoStems]

I noticed today that the open flowers are getting darker; I'm worried that they are fading, but the last one on the first spike just opened only a week or so ago. The weather has gotten substantially warmer recently, I have it in an East facing window that is shaded by a large oak tree and I also have a small 60 watt grow light above it due to the shade. I've watered it by dunking since there seems to be a fairly thick layer of moss on top and I'm convinced it won't get enough water using traditional methods. I have read that oncidium types like to dry out a little between watering, so I've been careful not to over-water it. I've still got a fully budded spike that hasn't opened yet so if the other flowers darkening is natural then I'm ok with it. I'm just worried I'm not doing something right. Any suggestions?

On another note: what, if anything, is the difference between Halo and Ontario? I've seen what looks to be the same plant labeled both ways. Thanks

[panam]

Ali, the darkening of the flowers is something many varieties do in their aging process. It might mean the demise of the flower, but that won't hurt the plant.

Do you have anything opening on the second spike yet?

[TwoStems]

Nothing opening yet, but the buds have gotten bigger. I'm anxious hehe.

[espranch]

Ali, it is possible for oncidium flowers to last three months or more...mine do, but they ARE in a greenhouse. Also, ANYTHING with p-bulbs on the bottom does store extra water & food...so be SURE to let your oncidium types dry out between waterings. I have personally found that if I water every week, that my orchids do just fine! Betty

[TwoStems]

I've been watering about once a week, and making sure to let it dry out a bit between waterings. When I bought it this spike was already in bloom and I don't know for how long. As long as I'm doing everything right (which it sounds like I am ) I'm not too worried. Thanks again all!

[Toni1968]

Love this one! Please post more pics when they open!